Experiencing fellowship with God today should be a Christian's prime focus. Living in obedience to God is evidence that I am His, and He is mine. Eternity weighed against the temporal is more important in a sense, but if I do not fear God and love Him today my sense of eternal security could be a product of self-deception. If I genuinely love God, I will obey Him and desire to spend time with Him now and gratefully join with others in the Body of Christ in worship. I will desire to have a deeper understanding of God and take practical steps to draw near to Him.
1 John 1:6-7 reads, "If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth.
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But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin." My theology does not assure me entrance to heaven, but the blood of Jesus Christ applied to my soul by grace through faith. I can be sound in doctrine, but it is only theoretical unless I am born again and filled with the Holy Spirit. Because Jesus Christ is the Light of the World and become my life, I have fellowship with God and other Christians. Since the Holy Spirit fills each born-again believer, I experience fellowship with God through communion with others who are in Christ because we are one in Him.
Are you experiencing fellowship with God? Do you speak to Him and heed His voice through the prompting of the Spirit and the reading of His Word? What prophetic words have you taken to heart God has spoken through fellow Christians? If you do not care to spend time with God today, do you really want to abide in His presence forever? And if a person is not delighted at the thought to spend today in God's presence, why should that person fool himself to think God wants such an ungrateful one with Him forever? God is interested to have a close relationship with me today. He is not interested to offer me a heavenly flophouse where I can be eternally content and secure without me caring to know Him. Eternal security is found in knowing, trusting, and obeying God now.
Jesus said in Matthew 28:18-20, "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth.
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Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
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teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Amen." Jesus came to seek and save the lost (Luke 19:10) and destroy the works of the devil (1 John 3:7-8). As I read this portion recently, it struck me that Jesus did not ask His disciples to obtain decisions for Christ so people could go to heaven. He told them to go and make disciples of all nations who obey all Christ commanded. People are willing to pledge themselves, but God is not interested in man's promises. He seeks to save sinners! Make no mistake: only true followers of Christ will go to heaven, for faith without works is dead. Only those who have fellowship with God and walk in the light will live eternally with Him.
Christianity is not a religion but a decision to enter into a relationship with the living God. God has reached out to us, not to impose rules upon us to restrict, but having freed believers from sin He instructs us in how to live in the way that pleases Him. He has demonstrated His love for us through Christ dying on the cross, and He has proved His victory and power through His resurrection from the dead. He has also sent the Holy Spirit to fill all who trust in Christ, providing the desire and ability to do His will (Phil. 2:13). If you do not have fellowship with God today, do not be deceived to think you will suddenly obtain this privilege when you body dies on the basis of your theology. Jesus spoke to the lukewarm church of Laodicea in Revelation 3:20, "Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me." Will you open the door today?
30 July 2015
28 July 2015
Grate Expectations
Ultimately God is the One who prepares and sustains people in ministry whether locally or abroad. There are unique challenges faced by those who are led to serve in a foreign field. Recognising and preparing for these changes will aid you immensely in overcoming all by God's grace. When shrubs or trees are transplanted they can experience shock, and moving a family across the ocean can be shocking as well. But the glorious truth is Christ is the best husbandman, and the fruitful tree He prunes so it might bear more fruit.
I never aspired to foreign ministry, but it is something God has called me to embrace. Answering the call has been rewarding beyond belief. Such aspirations will eventually end up disillusioning and burdensome when of the flesh. Travel and living abroad has a romantic appeal to some, like a boy who becomes temporarily infatuated with a girl. But those for whom God has opened a door no man can shut to a foreign field, having confirmed His call upon your life through His Word and others, here are a few things to keep in mind which can prepare you to stay the course with joy. Expect things to occur which will grate on you, but this is a necessary part of the refining process God employs to make us useable. This is obviously not a exhaustive list, but these are lessons my family and I have learned along the way.
I never aspired to foreign ministry, but it is something God has called me to embrace. Answering the call has been rewarding beyond belief. Such aspirations will eventually end up disillusioning and burdensome when of the flesh. Travel and living abroad has a romantic appeal to some, like a boy who becomes temporarily infatuated with a girl. But those for whom God has opened a door no man can shut to a foreign field, having confirmed His call upon your life through His Word and others, here are a few things to keep in mind which can prepare you to stay the course with joy. Expect things to occur which will grate on you, but this is a necessary part of the refining process God employs to make us useable. This is obviously not a exhaustive list, but these are lessons my family and I have learned along the way.
- Understand you need to change. Moving internationally means transitioning into a new culture with a different mind-set and world view. It is insensitive and foolish to be endlessly comparing and contrasting with your original background. Quit comparing and learn to be content. You need to be willing to adapt concerning language and communication style, eat different or unfamiliar foods, watch or play different sports - without trying to force people to change to accommodate you! You are the foreigner, and you must be willing to change every aspect of your life to minister effectively where God has placed you.
- Be prepared for silence. Just because your life has been radically changed with an international move, life for everyone else is very much the same. If you expect hundreds of email replies to your newsletter, you will be disappointed. If you expect phone calls from friends and family or even the people with whom you are connected in the foreign field, you may be waiting a while! Life goes on, and only Jesus is available to speak anytime - even without needing a good internet connection.
- Get used to being wrong. Be prepared to say the wrong thing the wrong way at the wrong time. Humbly admit mistakes when you make them, and do your best to improve. Be willing to have a hearty laugh at your own expense. No sense in becoming angry over missing a turn because you were driving in the wrong lane. Accept you are imperfect and welcome correction as a loving friend and gratefully accept those who seem to rejoice to instruct you.
- Get used to needing to prove yourself again and again. It can be hard going from having a reputation as the "real deal" in your home country to being an untested unknown - and sometimes unwanted - in a foreign field. Respect is earned over time, not obtained by virtue of your position or sacrifice. Being a foreigner in Australia, whenever my circle enlarges I need to prove myself again. Even becoming a dual citizen, my accent for the remainder of my life will expose me as an outsider. It is following Jesus with patience, humility, and faithfulness over the long haul which brings credibility. It can be exhausting to perpetually be on trial, but God provides all the strength we need.
- You need to to take the initiative. Don't expect to be automatically included because you are new. Take time to make friends outside of ministry. Ask people about where they do their shopping and ask them to help you buy clothes. Involve yourself in volunteering with charities or at your children's school, connect with other parents through sports, and invite others out for coffee or dinner. Go up to people at church and join in with their conversation. Unless you take personal steps to enlarge your circle, it will remain painfully tight.
- Transition will take time. Be prepared for this to take many years, not months. When I trimmed a lemon tree, it remained without much growth or lemons for an entire year. A year later, however, the same tree produced a massive harvest. Establishing a family in a foreign country takes a long time. Things will not be "normal" for years. At every turn there can be constant reminders you are a stranger in a foreign land. Take time to ensure your immediate family is well settled before spreading yourself thin with ministry responsibilities. The house should be built before the shed, or otherwise we leave our family in the cold while we toil away on our projects.
Give God What Is His
God is not looking for men but for a man, said J. Oswald Sanders in the classic Spiritual Leadership. He seeks one person to fully surrender to the work of the Holy Spirit within his regenerated heart. Are you willing to pay the price to be the man upon whom God shows Himself strong? Sanders wrote, "But not all who aspire to leadership are willing to pay so exacting a price. However, God's conditions must be complied with in secret before He will honour a man in public." (Sanders, J. Oswald. Spiritual Leadership. Rev. ed. Chicago: Moody, 1980. 21-22. Print.) If we desire to lead others in following Jesus, it is important we take those necessary baby steps when the camera is not rolling and no one is cheering.
Last night during the discipleship course at Calvary Chapel Sydney, I was reminded how tempting it is to offer God sacrifices over simple obedience. The Holy Spirit is persistent, and His conviction is not ignored without internal strife and miserable discomfort. Do you know God desires more than our obedience and allegiance? He wants you! One occasion stands out in my mind during my pilgrimage with Jesus. God showed me my vinyl record collection needed to be purged from my life. This was a feeling I had experienced over many other things, and frankly I was tired of it. As I dumped my prized collection into the rubbish bin, I started thinking about all the other things I had pitched - admittedly with a twinge of resentment. "How much more of my life do I have to give up?" I asked God in exasperation. His answer was shockingly simple: "All of it."
That was all He said. It struck me as brilliant and true. I had been selfishly looking at things all wrong. I was focused on physical items and behaviour, but God went straight to the heart. When I was born again through faith I had agreed to be purchased and redeemed with the precious blood of Jesus. God desired me to give myself into His control - not just my stuff or what I did with my time. Because I was His, everything else concerning my life belonged to Him already. I was familiar with the passage, but I had not put the essence of 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 into practice: "Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? 20 For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's." I am still learning to do this, to joyfully grant God full access to my life He has purchased for His own righteous use. If you desire to be a man upon whom God looks and shows Himself strong, you will need to learn this lesson too! What is impossible with men is possible with God. Praise God for the truth of Philippians 2:13: "...for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure." God will always do His part, and God help me to be responsible to do mine!
Last night during the discipleship course at Calvary Chapel Sydney, I was reminded how tempting it is to offer God sacrifices over simple obedience. The Holy Spirit is persistent, and His conviction is not ignored without internal strife and miserable discomfort. Do you know God desires more than our obedience and allegiance? He wants you! One occasion stands out in my mind during my pilgrimage with Jesus. God showed me my vinyl record collection needed to be purged from my life. This was a feeling I had experienced over many other things, and frankly I was tired of it. As I dumped my prized collection into the rubbish bin, I started thinking about all the other things I had pitched - admittedly with a twinge of resentment. "How much more of my life do I have to give up?" I asked God in exasperation. His answer was shockingly simple: "All of it."
That was all He said. It struck me as brilliant and true. I had been selfishly looking at things all wrong. I was focused on physical items and behaviour, but God went straight to the heart. When I was born again through faith I had agreed to be purchased and redeemed with the precious blood of Jesus. God desired me to give myself into His control - not just my stuff or what I did with my time. Because I was His, everything else concerning my life belonged to Him already. I was familiar with the passage, but I had not put the essence of 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 into practice: "Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? 20 For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's." I am still learning to do this, to joyfully grant God full access to my life He has purchased for His own righteous use. If you desire to be a man upon whom God looks and shows Himself strong, you will need to learn this lesson too! What is impossible with men is possible with God. Praise God for the truth of Philippians 2:13: "...for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure." God will always do His part, and God help me to be responsible to do mine!
26 July 2015
The Anti-Christian
We live in a world under the sway of Satan, and he has been a liar, murderer, and destroyer from the beginning. Consequently, this world today is far from a reflection of the glorious perfection which initially marked God's creation. This is nothing new. Even when Christ walked the dusty roads in Israel, there was no shortage of political problems. His cousin was arrested for criticising Herod's unlawful marriage, and was beheaded because of a rash oath Herod made to a dancer! My point is, Jesus could have enacted an "anti-Roman" platform which would have garnered great support among the Jews. But He didn't. Jesus went around doing good, preaching repentance and the kingdom of God.
The apostle Paul had no shortage of difficulties from governments, assassination plots, unlawful arrests, beatings, and incarcerations. The issues he was privy to by true and false brethren in the church were countless. Yet Paul did not become an "anti" Christian, one of those Christians who expends energy railing on doctrines or people he disagrees with. Instead of establishing a critical, negative stance towards others, Paul sought to positively promote Christ. He wrote in 1 Corinthians 2:1-2, "And I, brethren, when I came to you, did not come with excellence of speech or of wisdom declaring to you the testimony of God. 2 For I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified."
There are few things easier than pointing out faults in others. It is ridiculously simple to produce videos or write articles to pick apart doctrines or personalities without rebuttal. Incredible illogical leaps can be taken which on the surface appear sensible. Sadly, this seems to be an increasingly common and popular method. It should be a great concern if you spend more time lashing out at perceived wrongs in others rather than promoting Jesus Christ yourself! It would be tragic for Christians to be defined by what we are against rather than what and Who we stand for. Should we waste our time proving chaff is chaff when God has given us the good wheat of His Word to feed upon and share with others? What good is it to prove the lack of nutritional value of chaff when we could grind and supply the wheat to those who are starving? Taste and see that the LORD is good, and focus on sharing the good stuff with others!
The apostle Paul had no shortage of difficulties from governments, assassination plots, unlawful arrests, beatings, and incarcerations. The issues he was privy to by true and false brethren in the church were countless. Yet Paul did not become an "anti" Christian, one of those Christians who expends energy railing on doctrines or people he disagrees with. Instead of establishing a critical, negative stance towards others, Paul sought to positively promote Christ. He wrote in 1 Corinthians 2:1-2, "And I, brethren, when I came to you, did not come with excellence of speech or of wisdom declaring to you the testimony of God. 2 For I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified."
There are few things easier than pointing out faults in others. It is ridiculously simple to produce videos or write articles to pick apart doctrines or personalities without rebuttal. Incredible illogical leaps can be taken which on the surface appear sensible. Sadly, this seems to be an increasingly common and popular method. It should be a great concern if you spend more time lashing out at perceived wrongs in others rather than promoting Jesus Christ yourself! It would be tragic for Christians to be defined by what we are against rather than what and Who we stand for. Should we waste our time proving chaff is chaff when God has given us the good wheat of His Word to feed upon and share with others? What good is it to prove the lack of nutritional value of chaff when we could grind and supply the wheat to those who are starving? Taste and see that the LORD is good, and focus on sharing the good stuff with others!
22 July 2015
The Danger of Pride
I have seen the phrase "celebrate pride" often of late, but I cannot from a biblical perspective be persuaded to do so. Pride is always a precursor to destruction, and therefore I have great concern for all who rejoice to embrace it. Much of my young life was poisoned with pride and self-righteousness, and pride would have ruined me completely apart from the grace and mercy of God. Those who celebrate pride celebrate their own destruction. Pride was found in Satan in heaven, and he will ultimately be cast down to hell.
John warned Christians in 1 John 2:15-17, "Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world--the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life--is not of the Father but is of the world. 17 And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever." Pride is of this world, and this world is passing away. "But shouldn't I be proud of my children?" Proud? No. You should feel blessed and give God praise, for it is God who has given them success. Every time we are tempted to pride, we ought to give praise to God. If anyone had cause to be proud it would be God, but His immutable character is marked with humility. Pride is always a sin, absolutely contrary to a holy, righteous God.
Proverbs 8:13 reads, "The fear of the LORD is to hate evil; pride and arrogance and the evil way and the perverse mouth I hate." Pride and arrogance is an evil way before the LORD which only leads to destruction. God said through the prophet in Ezekiel 16:49: "Look, this was the iniquity of your sister Sodom: she and her daughter had pride, fullness of food, and abundance of idleness; neither did she strengthen the hand of the poor and needy." Pride was the iniquity of Sodom, and pride nests in the heart of every person. My flesh is utterly steeped in pride. It is only the indwelling Spirit of the Living God who has delivered me from bondage to it. To this day pride fights tirelessly for control in my mind and heart, desiring to be my cruel master once again. Those who walk in pride God is able to abase.
The Word of God opens our eyes to the grave danger of pride, and helps us realise our need to be transformed from within. Here are some quick-hitters from the Proverbs: Proverbs 11:2 says, "When pride comes, then comes shame; but with the humble is wisdom." Proverbs 16:18 states, "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." And Proverbs 29:23: "A man's pride will bring him low, but the humble in spirit will retain honour." It is pride which keeps a man from God as it is written in Psalm 10:4: "The wicked in his proud countenance does not seek God; God is in none of his thoughts." Pride is an abomination to God, as it says in Proverbs 16:5: "Everyone proud in heart is an abomination to the LORD; though they join forces, none will go unpunished."
To point out the pride which exists in the world and naturally in every human heart is like saying, "Water is wet." It is a blatantly obvious point, a truth with which we are all intimately acquainted. The point of this post is not to prompt us to accuse or point fingers at others, but for each of us to ask God to examine our own hearts according to His righteousness: "LORD, is there any part of my life where I celebrate pride? I repent and forsake it all. Cleanse me of all my hateful pride!" Pride poses a great danger to all people, and Christians who cling to their pride add hypocrisy to their abominations. Those who walk in pride God will abase, and those who walk humbly God will exalt. Jesus said in Matthew 11:29, "Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls."
John warned Christians in 1 John 2:15-17, "Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world--the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life--is not of the Father but is of the world. 17 And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever." Pride is of this world, and this world is passing away. "But shouldn't I be proud of my children?" Proud? No. You should feel blessed and give God praise, for it is God who has given them success. Every time we are tempted to pride, we ought to give praise to God. If anyone had cause to be proud it would be God, but His immutable character is marked with humility. Pride is always a sin, absolutely contrary to a holy, righteous God.
Proverbs 8:13 reads, "The fear of the LORD is to hate evil; pride and arrogance and the evil way and the perverse mouth I hate." Pride and arrogance is an evil way before the LORD which only leads to destruction. God said through the prophet in Ezekiel 16:49: "Look, this was the iniquity of your sister Sodom: she and her daughter had pride, fullness of food, and abundance of idleness; neither did she strengthen the hand of the poor and needy." Pride was the iniquity of Sodom, and pride nests in the heart of every person. My flesh is utterly steeped in pride. It is only the indwelling Spirit of the Living God who has delivered me from bondage to it. To this day pride fights tirelessly for control in my mind and heart, desiring to be my cruel master once again. Those who walk in pride God is able to abase.
The Word of God opens our eyes to the grave danger of pride, and helps us realise our need to be transformed from within. Here are some quick-hitters from the Proverbs: Proverbs 11:2 says, "When pride comes, then comes shame; but with the humble is wisdom." Proverbs 16:18 states, "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." And Proverbs 29:23: "A man's pride will bring him low, but the humble in spirit will retain honour." It is pride which keeps a man from God as it is written in Psalm 10:4: "The wicked in his proud countenance does not seek God; God is in none of his thoughts." Pride is an abomination to God, as it says in Proverbs 16:5: "Everyone proud in heart is an abomination to the LORD; though they join forces, none will go unpunished."
To point out the pride which exists in the world and naturally in every human heart is like saying, "Water is wet." It is a blatantly obvious point, a truth with which we are all intimately acquainted. The point of this post is not to prompt us to accuse or point fingers at others, but for each of us to ask God to examine our own hearts according to His righteousness: "LORD, is there any part of my life where I celebrate pride? I repent and forsake it all. Cleanse me of all my hateful pride!" Pride poses a great danger to all people, and Christians who cling to their pride add hypocrisy to their abominations. Those who walk in pride God will abase, and those who walk humbly God will exalt. Jesus said in Matthew 11:29, "Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls."
21 July 2015
The Prayer of Faith
"Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord.
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And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven."
James 5:14-15
It is the prayer of faith God will answer. There is no special power in elders to pray, as if elders in the church know the secret words or a better chance because of tenure to acquire God's favour from any who are born again. It is not the long-winded prayer of an orator which beckons the ear of God. It is not a prayer of a professional, nor of someone whose prayers have been answered before. There are no healing properties in oil applied to the sick which brings a miraculous cure: it is the simple prayer of faith in God. Prayer duration and diction do not enter into it, but a heart and mind compelled through faith. Faith demonstrated by obedience is the key.
Do you realise God knows what you need even before you ask? Our Heavenly Father is not like a the wicked judge in the parable Jesus told who must be pestered into action. He is not like a man who forgets! To think we must pray all night for God to earn the right to be heard or that we must repeat ourselves like a man before dumb idols who cannot hear is folly. Jesus said in Matthew 6:7-8, "And when you pray, do not use vain repetitions as the heathen do. For they think that they will be heard for their many words. 8 Therefore do not be like them. For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him." We always ought to pray without fainting (Luke 18:1), and the indwelling Holy Spirit is critical to lead us in prayer. Romans 8:26 tells us, "Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered."
So if God knows what we need before we even ask Him, why bother to pray at all? Because "Ask and ye shall receive" is a principle of the kingdom. We are not to neglect asking, and we ought to examine our motives according to God's Word: why am I asking? James 4:2-3 says, "You lust and do not have. You murder and covet and cannot obtain. You fight and war. Yet you do not have because you do not ask. 3 You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss, that you may spend it on your pleasures." We ought to be persistent in prayer, but there is no substitute for the prayer of faith. It may be a lack of faith which causes you to harp on one string before the LORD day after day, thinking you must earn the right to be heard by speaking much. If I believe God has heard me - prepared for my request long before I asked - I can have confidence in Him He has heard me and I will have my request as it is written in 1 John 5:14-15: "Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. 15 And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him."
No one has greater access to God because of their role in the Body of Christ or by virtue of the amount of oil used in anointing. It is the prayer of faith according to God's will He hears and answers. God is in control, and when we submit to His rule and trust Him, the heavens are freely opened to all who fear Him. Hebrews 4:14-16 exhorts us, "Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. 15 For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need." Reading books on prayer will not teach you how to pray, nor can they impart faith to make your prayers fervent or effectual. We need the Holy Spirit to guide and empower us. Prayer simply ought to be done, and apart from faith in God will always be a fruitless endeavour.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 proclaims God's will for all: "Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." Boldly enter into God's throne room of grace, for in times of need you have an attentive audience with the Most High. Paul was conscious he spoke to God thrice about the messenger of Satan in His life, knowing God had heard him clearly each time. God may answer your prayer with "No," but what is true for Paul is true for all those who pray in faith: "My grace is sufficient for you. My strength is made perfect in weakness." It is through the perceived weakness of prayer God's strength will be made manifest to all.
20 July 2015
"As You Wish!"
In the classic film "The Princess Bride" based on a novel by William Goldman, a young woman found true love in a servant who worked for her. When she made requests of him he would always answer, "As you wish." The Grandfather, played by Peter Falk, read this line from his book: "That day she was amazed to discover that when he was saying 'As you wish," what he meant was, 'I love you.'" True love is always displayed through action, and Westley showed he loved Buttercup by his faithful service.
Being a hired hand, it may be said Westley did not have a choice whether he obeyed Buttercup or not. But Westley certainly did have a choice. It could have cost him his position or had other negative consequences, but Westley had the freedom to choose. The same can be said for all people concerning belief, trust, and obedience. God has given every person the freedom to choose who we will serve. There are ultimately two final choices: I am free to live according to my will or God's will. Jesus held forth this truth as He bowed before His Father in heaven in the Garden of Gethsemane. Luke 22:41-42 reads, "And He was withdrawn from them about a stone's throw, and He knelt down and prayed, 42 saying, "Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done."
God does not tell us His wishes - wistful thoughts of a powerless being who is at the mercy of men who claim to serve Him - but He has revealed unto those who trust God His perfect will. God can accomplish all things without the aid of man, yet He has chosen to use people as His vessels infused with the Holy Spirit. Jesus laid down the will of His flesh that He might do the will of the Father, and it is the same for us. In all things we are either doing as we wish or submitting ourselves to do God's will. It is through obedience to God's will we demonstrate our love for God, even as Westley proclaimed his love for Buttercup through faithful service. As Jesus said in John 15:10, "If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father's commandments and abide in His love."
Saying and doing as God wills is a way we display our love for God. May our lives everyday plainly say to Jesus Christ our LORD, "I love you."
Being a hired hand, it may be said Westley did not have a choice whether he obeyed Buttercup or not. But Westley certainly did have a choice. It could have cost him his position or had other negative consequences, but Westley had the freedom to choose. The same can be said for all people concerning belief, trust, and obedience. God has given every person the freedom to choose who we will serve. There are ultimately two final choices: I am free to live according to my will or God's will. Jesus held forth this truth as He bowed before His Father in heaven in the Garden of Gethsemane. Luke 22:41-42 reads, "And He was withdrawn from them about a stone's throw, and He knelt down and prayed, 42 saying, "Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done."
God does not tell us His wishes - wistful thoughts of a powerless being who is at the mercy of men who claim to serve Him - but He has revealed unto those who trust God His perfect will. God can accomplish all things without the aid of man, yet He has chosen to use people as His vessels infused with the Holy Spirit. Jesus laid down the will of His flesh that He might do the will of the Father, and it is the same for us. In all things we are either doing as we wish or submitting ourselves to do God's will. It is through obedience to God's will we demonstrate our love for God, even as Westley proclaimed his love for Buttercup through faithful service. As Jesus said in John 15:10, "If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father's commandments and abide in His love."
Saying and doing as God wills is a way we display our love for God. May our lives everyday plainly say to Jesus Christ our LORD, "I love you."
19 July 2015
God's Love for You and Me
We have embarked on a study of Song of Solomon during our Sunday morning messages at Calvary Chapel Sydney. The epic romance of the Shulamite and her beloved is like a rich tapestry, with multiple layers of meaning and insights into the love of God. It is amazing to think of royalty courting and marrying a common working woman, but even more phenomenal to consider the great love of God for people.
As I studied the beginning of chapter 2, it dawned on me how Solomon's love for the Shulamite was revealed in at least five ways. The love God has granted us by His grace ought to be love which marks our lives towards God and all we meet, especially those of the household of faith with whom we have been made one body through Christ. The way Solomon displayed love for his betrothed is a striking parallel to the way the love of Jesus has been given to me.
Solomon's love for his betrothed was personal. He affirmed his love through sincere compliments, and she was all fair in his eyes. He preferred the company of his beloved over all others. To him, it was as if she was the only woman around: if she was a lily, all others compared to her as thorns. He was a protector of his future mate, offering refuge like a shade tree from the sun's heat. He provided for his beloved with their future in mind, building a lovely house they would share together. Solomon also displayed his love publicly without embarrassment, and he rejoiced to claim his beloved as his own.
Isn't this strikingly similar to how Jesus has revealed His love for us? The love of Jesus is personal: He shed His blood for me. Romans 5:8 reminds us, "But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." He prefers the company of those He calls friends, those who love Him and keep His commandments. Jesus Christ is my refuge in whom I find rest. He has provided for all my needs in this life, and is also preparing a place for me and all others who trust Him in heaven. He has displayed His love publicly, dying on the cross to atone for sins. As it is written of Christ in John 1:11-13, "He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him. 12 But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: 13 who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God."
Since God's love has been shed abroad in the hearts of Christ's followers through the Holy Spirit, so His love is to be dispensed through us to all. Loving God and others with the sacrificial, active love of God confirms that we are indeed His, adopted into His royal family. It is all of grace. Let us not be ashamed of Christ or His gospel, for it is the power of God unto salvation to all who believe.
As I studied the beginning of chapter 2, it dawned on me how Solomon's love for the Shulamite was revealed in at least five ways. The love God has granted us by His grace ought to be love which marks our lives towards God and all we meet, especially those of the household of faith with whom we have been made one body through Christ. The way Solomon displayed love for his betrothed is a striking parallel to the way the love of Jesus has been given to me.
Solomon's love for his betrothed was personal. He affirmed his love through sincere compliments, and she was all fair in his eyes. He preferred the company of his beloved over all others. To him, it was as if she was the only woman around: if she was a lily, all others compared to her as thorns. He was a protector of his future mate, offering refuge like a shade tree from the sun's heat. He provided for his beloved with their future in mind, building a lovely house they would share together. Solomon also displayed his love publicly without embarrassment, and he rejoiced to claim his beloved as his own.
Isn't this strikingly similar to how Jesus has revealed His love for us? The love of Jesus is personal: He shed His blood for me. Romans 5:8 reminds us, "But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." He prefers the company of those He calls friends, those who love Him and keep His commandments. Jesus Christ is my refuge in whom I find rest. He has provided for all my needs in this life, and is also preparing a place for me and all others who trust Him in heaven. He has displayed His love publicly, dying on the cross to atone for sins. As it is written of Christ in John 1:11-13, "He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him. 12 But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: 13 who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God."
Since God's love has been shed abroad in the hearts of Christ's followers through the Holy Spirit, so His love is to be dispensed through us to all. Loving God and others with the sacrificial, active love of God confirms that we are indeed His, adopted into His royal family. It is all of grace. Let us not be ashamed of Christ or His gospel, for it is the power of God unto salvation to all who believe.
16 July 2015
Angry With God?
During a discussion recently, the topic of conversation turned to one not often addressed: being angry with God. My friend observed he had noticed an increasing number of students and interns in Bible schools who claim to be currently "angry with God" like it is a badge of honour and justifiable. For some time he noticed a growing trend - among professing Christians - who said they were angry with God. That brings up a question: is it OK to be angry with God?
The scripture says of anger in Ephesians 4:26, "Be angry, and do not sin": do not let the sun go down on your wrath..." Whilst it is possible to be angry without sin, this scripture reveals it is impossible for us to remain angry without sin. Solomon cautioned in Ecclesiastes 7:9, "Do not hasten in your spirit to be angry, for anger rests in the bosom of fools." Frequent anger is an indication of foolishness, and a fool is someone who lives without regard or fear of God. We would like to think we bristle with righteous indignation when we are angry, yet often the reality is anything but.
Scripture reveals times when God's anger was stirred up, and with the ridiculous caricatures of God often presented the occurrences are far more rare than one might think. David wrote in Psalm 7:11, "God is a just judge, and God is angry with the wicked every day." When God perceives wickedness in His people, His righteous anger is aroused. In Deuteronomy 9:20, God was very angry with Aaron the High Priest for leading the nation into idolatry. God was angry with Moses for not sanctifying Him before the people (Deut. 1:37; 4:21). 1 Kings 11:9 reads, "So the LORD became angry with Solomon, because his heart had turned from the LORD God of Israel, who had appeared to him twice..." To whom much is given much is required, and God's anger is aroused by sinfulness - not just among those who know not God, but to those He has revealed Himself. Sin is the fuel and man supplies the fire through unbelief and sin which kindles the anger of God. God's anger is provoked as a result of sin.
Our common motives for being angry are primarily selfish, usually concern over how we have been negatively affected by circumstances. Since we are not in agreement or pleased with what God has seen fit to allow, we can become angry. When Abel's sacrifice was accepted and Cain's was rejected, Cain was angry. Whether he was specifically angry with God is not explicitly revealed in the text, but God warned Cain how sinful anger leads to more sin. Genesis 4:6-7 says, "So the LORD said to Cain, "Why are you angry? And why has your countenance fallen? 7 If you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin lies at the door. And its desire is for you, but you should rule over it." In the very next verse, Cain murdered his brother Abel. Whenever we are angry, we do well to answer the question: why am I angry? Anger is often inflamed with sinful motives, and unless we repent it will surely lead to greater sin.
Another case of anger in God's people was after Jonah the prophet was sent by God to warn the Ninevites of coming judgment. When they repented and mourned over their sin, God spared the people and the city. Jonah 4:1 tells us Jonah's surprising reaction: "But it displeased Jonah exceedingly, and he became angry." Was Jonah angry at God? Maybe. Jonah complained God was slow to anger and relented from doing harm. He felt so miserable it would be better for him to die than live. In Jonah 4:4 God responded with a probing question: "Then the LORD said, "Is it right for you to be angry?" As Jonah continued to sulk and watched to see what would become of the city, God caused a plant to grow which shaded his head from the sun. He was grateful for that! During the night God prepared a worm to eat the plant and it died. When the sun arose, God prepared a strong wind to blow on Jonah and he wished for death. Jonah 4:9 says, "Then God said to Jonah, "Is it right for you to be angry about the plant?" And he said, "It is right for me to be angry, even to death!" It was not right for Jonah to be angry, and that is why He provided the plant, the worm, and the strong wind. And when faced with his sinful anger over a plant, Jonah decided he would rather die than let it go. When we hold on to sinful anger, it will eventually kill us.
There is only one instance in the Gospels I am aware of the Bible explicitly says Jesus Christ, God made flesh, was angry. If you are thinking about when Jesus fashioned a whip and drove out the money-changers and animals, it was zeal the scripture tells us - not anger - prompted Him. Since the scriptures do not explicitly say Jesus was angry on those two occasions, to say He must have been angry is conjecture at best and false accusation at worst. It is also thought when Jesus "groaned" in His spirit before He raised Jesus from the dead, the Greek word suggests anger. It is likely Jesus was angry many times (and moved by righteousness), but Jesus once was angry in the Gospels out of grief for the hardness of people's hearts, that they cared more for their animals than for a fellow man who was suffering. We find the passage in Mark 3:1-5: "And He entered the synagogue again, and a man was there who had a withered hand. 2 So they watched Him closely, whether He would heal him on the Sabbath, so that they might accuse Him. 3 And He said to the man who had the withered hand, "Step forward." 4 Then He said to them, "Is it lawful on the Sabbath to do good or to do evil, to save life or to kill?" But they kept silent. 5 And when He had looked around at them with anger, being grieved by the hardness of their hearts, He said to the man, "Stretch out your hand." And he stretched it out, and his hand was restored as whole as the other."
When we are angry we do well to first admit we are angry, and then ask ourselves the questions God posed: 1) Why am I angry? 2) Is it right for me to be angry? We can also follow up with: 3) Am I choosing to remain angry? If we will judge ourselves according to God's standard of righteousness, we will see there is never a righteous justification to be angry at a righteous God. Because God's anger is only kindled by sin, and God is completely without sin, it is always a sin to be angry with God. But you do not know what I've suffered, you might protest. You're right. I have no idea. But I do know Job is a great example of a man who recognised God's goodness despite the grave trials he suffered, and there is no one save Christ who can claim such calamities befell them by the hand of God in a single day. After Job was stripped of all his wealth, ten children, and his health, Job 2:9-10 says, "Then his wife said to him, "Do you still hold fast to your integrity? Curse God and die!" 10 But he said to her, "You speak as one of the foolish women speaks. Shall we indeed accept good from God, and shall we not accept adversity?" In all this Job did not sin with his lips."
Oh burdened heart, do not be angry at the only One who can deliver and save you! No man can be angry at God justly. Praise God His character is precisely as Jonah said: "You are a gracious and merciful God, slow to anger and abundant in lovingkindness, One who relents from doing harm." If you find yourself angry with God, I beg you to confess it as sin and cast your cares upon Jesus who cares for you. Is it right for you to be angry when Jesus willingly went to the cross, dying to deliver you from sinful anger? Our anger cannot add to His when it comes to sin. Remaining angry only kindles God's wrath, and repentance and faith in Christ provides our only escape.
The scripture says of anger in Ephesians 4:26, "Be angry, and do not sin": do not let the sun go down on your wrath..." Whilst it is possible to be angry without sin, this scripture reveals it is impossible for us to remain angry without sin. Solomon cautioned in Ecclesiastes 7:9, "Do not hasten in your spirit to be angry, for anger rests in the bosom of fools." Frequent anger is an indication of foolishness, and a fool is someone who lives without regard or fear of God. We would like to think we bristle with righteous indignation when we are angry, yet often the reality is anything but.
Scripture reveals times when God's anger was stirred up, and with the ridiculous caricatures of God often presented the occurrences are far more rare than one might think. David wrote in Psalm 7:11, "God is a just judge, and God is angry with the wicked every day." When God perceives wickedness in His people, His righteous anger is aroused. In Deuteronomy 9:20, God was very angry with Aaron the High Priest for leading the nation into idolatry. God was angry with Moses for not sanctifying Him before the people (Deut. 1:37; 4:21). 1 Kings 11:9 reads, "So the LORD became angry with Solomon, because his heart had turned from the LORD God of Israel, who had appeared to him twice..." To whom much is given much is required, and God's anger is aroused by sinfulness - not just among those who know not God, but to those He has revealed Himself. Sin is the fuel and man supplies the fire through unbelief and sin which kindles the anger of God. God's anger is provoked as a result of sin.
Our common motives for being angry are primarily selfish, usually concern over how we have been negatively affected by circumstances. Since we are not in agreement or pleased with what God has seen fit to allow, we can become angry. When Abel's sacrifice was accepted and Cain's was rejected, Cain was angry. Whether he was specifically angry with God is not explicitly revealed in the text, but God warned Cain how sinful anger leads to more sin. Genesis 4:6-7 says, "So the LORD said to Cain, "Why are you angry? And why has your countenance fallen? 7 If you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin lies at the door. And its desire is for you, but you should rule over it." In the very next verse, Cain murdered his brother Abel. Whenever we are angry, we do well to answer the question: why am I angry? Anger is often inflamed with sinful motives, and unless we repent it will surely lead to greater sin.
Another case of anger in God's people was after Jonah the prophet was sent by God to warn the Ninevites of coming judgment. When they repented and mourned over their sin, God spared the people and the city. Jonah 4:1 tells us Jonah's surprising reaction: "But it displeased Jonah exceedingly, and he became angry." Was Jonah angry at God? Maybe. Jonah complained God was slow to anger and relented from doing harm. He felt so miserable it would be better for him to die than live. In Jonah 4:4 God responded with a probing question: "Then the LORD said, "Is it right for you to be angry?" As Jonah continued to sulk and watched to see what would become of the city, God caused a plant to grow which shaded his head from the sun. He was grateful for that! During the night God prepared a worm to eat the plant and it died. When the sun arose, God prepared a strong wind to blow on Jonah and he wished for death. Jonah 4:9 says, "Then God said to Jonah, "Is it right for you to be angry about the plant?" And he said, "It is right for me to be angry, even to death!" It was not right for Jonah to be angry, and that is why He provided the plant, the worm, and the strong wind. And when faced with his sinful anger over a plant, Jonah decided he would rather die than let it go. When we hold on to sinful anger, it will eventually kill us.
There is only one instance in the Gospels I am aware of the Bible explicitly says Jesus Christ, God made flesh, was angry. If you are thinking about when Jesus fashioned a whip and drove out the money-changers and animals, it was zeal the scripture tells us - not anger - prompted Him. Since the scriptures do not explicitly say Jesus was angry on those two occasions, to say He must have been angry is conjecture at best and false accusation at worst. It is also thought when Jesus "groaned" in His spirit before He raised Jesus from the dead, the Greek word suggests anger. It is likely Jesus was angry many times (and moved by righteousness), but Jesus once was angry in the Gospels out of grief for the hardness of people's hearts, that they cared more for their animals than for a fellow man who was suffering. We find the passage in Mark 3:1-5: "And He entered the synagogue again, and a man was there who had a withered hand. 2 So they watched Him closely, whether He would heal him on the Sabbath, so that they might accuse Him. 3 And He said to the man who had the withered hand, "Step forward." 4 Then He said to them, "Is it lawful on the Sabbath to do good or to do evil, to save life or to kill?" But they kept silent. 5 And when He had looked around at them with anger, being grieved by the hardness of their hearts, He said to the man, "Stretch out your hand." And he stretched it out, and his hand was restored as whole as the other."
When we are angry we do well to first admit we are angry, and then ask ourselves the questions God posed: 1) Why am I angry? 2) Is it right for me to be angry? We can also follow up with: 3) Am I choosing to remain angry? If we will judge ourselves according to God's standard of righteousness, we will see there is never a righteous justification to be angry at a righteous God. Because God's anger is only kindled by sin, and God is completely without sin, it is always a sin to be angry with God. But you do not know what I've suffered, you might protest. You're right. I have no idea. But I do know Job is a great example of a man who recognised God's goodness despite the grave trials he suffered, and there is no one save Christ who can claim such calamities befell them by the hand of God in a single day. After Job was stripped of all his wealth, ten children, and his health, Job 2:9-10 says, "Then his wife said to him, "Do you still hold fast to your integrity? Curse God and die!" 10 But he said to her, "You speak as one of the foolish women speaks. Shall we indeed accept good from God, and shall we not accept adversity?" In all this Job did not sin with his lips."
Oh burdened heart, do not be angry at the only One who can deliver and save you! No man can be angry at God justly. Praise God His character is precisely as Jonah said: "You are a gracious and merciful God, slow to anger and abundant in lovingkindness, One who relents from doing harm." If you find yourself angry with God, I beg you to confess it as sin and cast your cares upon Jesus who cares for you. Is it right for you to be angry when Jesus willingly went to the cross, dying to deliver you from sinful anger? Our anger cannot add to His when it comes to sin. Remaining angry only kindles God's wrath, and repentance and faith in Christ provides our only escape.
14 July 2015
Crystals and Bucket Lists
The best stories are those straight from the Bible, but a close second
are those which affirm God's eternal truth. God has crammed life full of
situations the Holy Spirit transforms into meaningful parables for those
with eyes to see, ears to hear, and hearts to understand. I am always on the lookout for good stories, and I came across one yesterday written by my sister-in-law, Jena. Enjoy the following guest post!
Several years ago, when Jack was a wee lad, no more than four, we would head over to Mission Trails and take a small hike to a little place called Crystal Cave. I don't even know if that's its actual name; it's just what I was told. My aunt and uncles grew up living on Mission Trails, and I grew up listening to the stories they had of adventure and conquest during their childhood. Crystal Cave was one of those places. Apparently it was once a cave used to mine crystals, but for whatever reason was abandoned and broken down. Around what used to be the entrance were tons of partially crystallized rocks, worthless for sure, but treasure to a four-year-old. And not just for any four-year-old, but a four-year-old pirate. That's right! Mom won major points for these little excursions.
During one of our trips to Crystal Cave, we brought Jack's buddy Josh along with us. He had never been before, and we were excited to share this with him. We collected our buckets and headed out. Josh had been prepped for the “treasures” that lay ahead, but was distracted on the way and started filling his bucket with rocks. Plain. Old. Rocks. Jack and I tried to tell him that he wouldn't even want the rocks once we got to the cave, but he wouldn't listen. Soon his bucket got heavy and he became tired. The whining started as he fell behind. "I need heeeeeelllllppppp." "You guys are going too fast." "My arms are hurting." The funny thing is, try as we might, that kid would not dump the rocks. He lugged them all the way up to Crystal Cave. But as soon as his little head peeked over the precipice and saw the crystals, he promptly dumped his bucket of rocks and started collecting treasure.
Such needless frustration. I don’t imagine a modern day Jesus with a bucket list, do you? Like, “Before I die, I have to go bungee jumping!” I don’t imagine Him trying to extract every earthly pleasure (sin-free, obviously) out of His tenure here. But we do. Jesus came from heaven, so what on earth is He ever going to do here that would ever compare to where He’s been? There obviously isn’t anything wrong with bungee jumping or other earthly gifts, but like rocks let’s pick them up, enjoy them, and then put them back down. Enjoy them for what they are, but then let them go. How caught up are you on decorating/remodeling your house? How much mental real estate does your body shape/health take up? Does your residence need to be in a beautiful place and your life full of “adventure” to be full of joy? I have one word for you. Rocks. Let’s not carry these things around like they actually matter. These things don’t matter and worse, they weigh us down. Let’s cut ties. Let’s pick up crystals. Do you hear me? God has crystals for us. Things like revelation and resurrection! Works that transcend the here and now. Let’s get in the dirt, give away our stuff, our time, our bodies and our energies to divine appointments and a life of charity. Then this little thing called life - and that more abundantly - will overflow our lives, eerrr buckets. (story by Jena Krych Grisez)
13 July 2015
Fasting for Yourself or God?
It is a tragedy the Christian life for many is an ever-increasing litany of "do's and don'ts." People focused on external works of doing good or avoiding sin forms their own identity and sets them at odds with fellow believers. Don't misunderstand: we ought to be obedient to the commands of our Saviour, and we also ought to put off sinful deeds, thoughts, and motives. What defines a Christian is not what he does or doesn't do, but Jesus Christ who has saved him! Being born again by grace through faith is an supernatural inner work by the Holy Spirit of God which will certainly be perceived outwardly.
The Jews set a very high standard of outward obedience to the Law. Amazingly complex and technical definitions of sin were established and observed according to oral tradition, and man taught as Law the traditions of the elders. In the book of Zechariah, God pointed out prolonged fasts the Jews observed even in captivity. Zechariah 7:4-6 reads, "Then the word of the LORD of hosts came to me, saying, 5 "Say to all the people of the land, and to the priests: 'When you fasted and mourned in the fifth and seventh months during those seventy years, did you really fast for Me--for Me? 6 When you eat and when you drink, do you not eat and drink for yourselves?" As always, God went straight to the heart of the matter. It was all fine and good for people to fast in the fifth and seventh months, yet God questioned their motives in doing so. What was His gauge for their sincerity? He did not judge them pious because they did not eat - but because when they did eat they ate for themselves. This is a earth-shattering truth. Their denial of food was viewed as self-serving and insincere because that is how they lived the other 10 months out of the year.
Now I am not saying it is wrong in itself to observe traditions like Lent or fasting from meat, the idea being to "give something up" in devotion to God. Some believe self-denial is a path to inner change, but this concept is not demonstrated anywhere in scripture. We need to be made new creations as Galatians 6:15 says, "For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but a new creation." Fasting is good if done according to the leading of the Holy Spirit in obedience. Whenever you eat - at any hour anytime - do you eat as unto the LORD? Whether we eat or do not eat, we are to do so unto the LORD (Romans 14:5-9). What a ridiculous sham it would be to diligently fast three days a week from all food and water, yet live for yourself the other four days. Such a life lived for self proves the fast was not for God at all! God is the God of those who fast as well as those who eat. Some think God is pleased with our willing self-denial of food, but God would rather us permanently fast from sin. God spoke through the prophet in Isaiah 58:5-7, "Is it a fast that I have chosen, a day for a man to afflict his soul? Is it to bow down his head like a bulrush, and to spread out sackcloth and ashes? Would you call this a fast, and an acceptable day to the LORD? 6 Is this not the fast that I have chosen: to loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, to let the oppressed go free, and that you break every yoke? 7 Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, and that you bring to your house the poor who are cast out; when you see the naked, that you cover him, and not hide yourself from your own flesh?"
Let us keep the feast as well as the fast God spoke of. Our aim not to be "social justice" but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with our God (Micah 6:8). Should we walk in God's ways Isaiah 58:8-11 says, "Then your light shall break forth like the morning, your healing shall spring forth speedily, and your righteousness shall go before you; the glory of the LORD shall be your rear guard. 9 Then you shall call, and the LORD will answer; you shall cry, and He will say, 'Here I am.' "If you take away the yoke from your midst, the pointing of the finger, and speaking wickedness, 10 if you extend your soul to the hungry and satisfy the afflicted soul, then your light shall dawn in the darkness, and your darkness shall be as the noonday. 11 The LORD will guide you continually, and satisfy your soul in drought, and strengthen your bones; you shall be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail." So who are you fasting for: God or yourself? It is your life apart from fasting which demonstrates if you are fasting for God or yourself! Who do you suppose gives better rewards?
The Jews set a very high standard of outward obedience to the Law. Amazingly complex and technical definitions of sin were established and observed according to oral tradition, and man taught as Law the traditions of the elders. In the book of Zechariah, God pointed out prolonged fasts the Jews observed even in captivity. Zechariah 7:4-6 reads, "Then the word of the LORD of hosts came to me, saying, 5 "Say to all the people of the land, and to the priests: 'When you fasted and mourned in the fifth and seventh months during those seventy years, did you really fast for Me--for Me? 6 When you eat and when you drink, do you not eat and drink for yourselves?" As always, God went straight to the heart of the matter. It was all fine and good for people to fast in the fifth and seventh months, yet God questioned their motives in doing so. What was His gauge for their sincerity? He did not judge them pious because they did not eat - but because when they did eat they ate for themselves. This is a earth-shattering truth. Their denial of food was viewed as self-serving and insincere because that is how they lived the other 10 months out of the year.
Now I am not saying it is wrong in itself to observe traditions like Lent or fasting from meat, the idea being to "give something up" in devotion to God. Some believe self-denial is a path to inner change, but this concept is not demonstrated anywhere in scripture. We need to be made new creations as Galatians 6:15 says, "For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but a new creation." Fasting is good if done according to the leading of the Holy Spirit in obedience. Whenever you eat - at any hour anytime - do you eat as unto the LORD? Whether we eat or do not eat, we are to do so unto the LORD (Romans 14:5-9). What a ridiculous sham it would be to diligently fast three days a week from all food and water, yet live for yourself the other four days. Such a life lived for self proves the fast was not for God at all! God is the God of those who fast as well as those who eat. Some think God is pleased with our willing self-denial of food, but God would rather us permanently fast from sin. God spoke through the prophet in Isaiah 58:5-7, "Is it a fast that I have chosen, a day for a man to afflict his soul? Is it to bow down his head like a bulrush, and to spread out sackcloth and ashes? Would you call this a fast, and an acceptable day to the LORD? 6 Is this not the fast that I have chosen: to loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, to let the oppressed go free, and that you break every yoke? 7 Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, and that you bring to your house the poor who are cast out; when you see the naked, that you cover him, and not hide yourself from your own flesh?"
Let us keep the feast as well as the fast God spoke of. Our aim not to be "social justice" but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with our God (Micah 6:8). Should we walk in God's ways Isaiah 58:8-11 says, "Then your light shall break forth like the morning, your healing shall spring forth speedily, and your righteousness shall go before you; the glory of the LORD shall be your rear guard. 9 Then you shall call, and the LORD will answer; you shall cry, and He will say, 'Here I am.' "If you take away the yoke from your midst, the pointing of the finger, and speaking wickedness, 10 if you extend your soul to the hungry and satisfy the afflicted soul, then your light shall dawn in the darkness, and your darkness shall be as the noonday. 11 The LORD will guide you continually, and satisfy your soul in drought, and strengthen your bones; you shall be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail." So who are you fasting for: God or yourself? It is your life apart from fasting which demonstrates if you are fasting for God or yourself! Who do you suppose gives better rewards?
12 July 2015
Good and Acceptable Prayers
"Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men,
2
for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.
3
For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior,
4
who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth."
1 Timothy 2:1-4
The rise of democracy has given common men a say in who holds positions of authority in government. In the days when kings ruled, men and women did not have such a luxury. One of the effects of this responsibility is to vocally support those whom you have voted for and approve of and to stand firmly opposed to all others. Kings had the power to imprison and execute any who spoke or acted against them, and the freedoms afforded by democratic process have eliminated such a threat. People who would have been branded traitors in the old days can speak their minds without fear of retribution. The freedom to speak is not a bad thing in itself, but gives rise to a lack of respect to people God has sovereignly allowed to rule.
Daniel, a Jew held captive in Babylon affirmed in Daniel 2:20-22, "Blessed be the name of God forever and ever, for wisdom and might are His. 21 And He changes the times and the seasons; He removes kings and raises up kings; He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding. 22 He reveals deep and secret things; He knows what is in the darkness, and light dwells with Him." Since God is the one who ultimately establishes rulers and sets them aside at His pleasure, we are to honour and respect those who are in authority. All rulers - regardless of our opinions of their performance - are an extension of God's authority on earth. Whether the Jews were ruled by King Saul, David, Nebuchadnezzar, or Caesar, it was good and acceptable in God's sight that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority. To what end? That we might lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. How often our prayers can be focused on other ends than these!
Whether or not we agree with the policies of politicians who represent us, we ought to make a strong effort in praying on their behalf. God desires that they too be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth, even if it seems improbable they could ever change. A leopard cannot change its spots, and all men are incapable of changing for the better. As the only hope for a man born blind ever seeing is the power of Jesus Christ, so God provides the only hope for a peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. Leveraging political process may have the appearance of positive change, but only God can bring this to fruition. Christians ought to use their votes wisely, and when they have voted should continue to pray for those in authority whether you supported them or not. All those in authority should be upheld in prayerful supplications, intercessions, and giving of thanks for all men. God will hear and answer these prayers of faith.
11 July 2015
God Can Do Everything
After God revealed Himself to Job, I was blessed by his observation in Job 42:2: "I know that You can do everything, and that no purpose of Yours can be withheld from You." Job said, "I know that You can do everything." This is very different from Job saying, "I know you can do anything." "Anything" and "everything" are both inclusive words, but there is a huge difference between the two.
Let's say I invite you into a shop and say, "You are welcome to take anything you want." Though you are welcome to anything, it remains limited to a single thing. It is quite another meaning entirely if I said, "You are welcome to take everything you want." Not only can you have anything, but you can have everything you desire. This is an offer without limitation. Which is a greater claim: to say you can do anything you want or you can do everything you want? Everything, of course!
We say, "God can do anything!" But it would be better to say like Job, "God can do everything!" No purpose of God can be withheld from Him, and a God of such glorious power and goodness is worthy of all worship and praise!
Let's say I invite you into a shop and say, "You are welcome to take anything you want." Though you are welcome to anything, it remains limited to a single thing. It is quite another meaning entirely if I said, "You are welcome to take everything you want." Not only can you have anything, but you can have everything you desire. This is an offer without limitation. Which is a greater claim: to say you can do anything you want or you can do everything you want? Everything, of course!
We say, "God can do anything!" But it would be better to say like Job, "God can do everything!" No purpose of God can be withheld from Him, and a God of such glorious power and goodness is worthy of all worship and praise!
09 July 2015
Me and My House
According to the God-ordained structure of marriage and family, the husband submitted to Jesus Christ is given authority and responsibility to teach his wife and children to fear and honour God. When this calling is mixed with pride of the flesh, only disaster can result. In every way possible, I am called as a husband and dad to love and obey God first, and then to lead the rest of my family to do the same - like a shepherd who leads the flock. Men can make the mistake of leaving this responsibility of their ministry to others or treat little lambs roughly as men do cattle: goading and driving oxen into confinement in pens with shouts and loud cracks of a whip. A bruised reed Jesus did not break, and smoking flax He did not quench. Love permeated all His speech and deeds.
It was Joshua who uttered the famous statement in Joshua 24:14-15, "Now therefore, fear the LORD, serve Him in sincerity and in truth, and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the River and in Egypt. Serve the LORD! 15 And if it seems evil to you to serve the LORD, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD." For forty years after leaving Egypt, many Israelites carried the dumb idols of their fathers who perished in the wilderness with them. Though many refused to give up their idolatry (Eze. 20:7-9), Joshua made a decision to put away all idolatry from his life, and he was going to fear and serve the LORD only. Recognise he decided to serve God himself first and foremost. He was not going to force on his family what he considered best for them without walking in that upright way himself. As Joshua established his steps in God's honour, he took the initiative to lead the rest of the family to follow his God. It's a fair question: where do I put more emphasis concerning holiness - on "me" or "my house?"
Kids are not stupid. They can sense hypocrisy with the best, their minds discerning right and wrong with legalistic perfection. They know when you have had too much to drink and how that makes you act. They know when you stay up late watching programs you would never allow them to watch. They observe continuously how you spend your time. They know what a priority prayer, Bible reading, and serving at church is to you. Like it or not, we are either leading our families to Jesus through our examples or leading them away from Him. To drive our children to do things for the sake of "because I say so" supplies nothing more than vain tradition. Deuteronomy 6:4-9 says, "Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one! 5 You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. 6 And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. 7 You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. 8 You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. 9 You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates." This greatest of commands is for all individuals and parents regardless of sex. Parents have the responsibility not just to talk about God, but to live a life where God is our all in all. Children will ultimately go their own way, and when parents follow Jesus faithfully it opens that straight narrow path which leads to eternal life for them to follow.
A life lived for God's glory has far greater weight than mere words. This is where we can go wrong. In our own strength we can lay heavy words on others, and assure ourselves we have done our duty. But our neglect to destroy our own idols and follow Jesus alone gives our hypocritical words a negative effect. "Do as I say, not as I do" is the worst way a man can live I dare say it would better to be an alcoholic, fiercely controlling, verbally abusive, hateful man who curses God and openly denies Him than to claim you fear God whilst refusing to submit to Him fully. Many "churched" children are disillusioned by the hypocrisy of their "Christian" parents who go through the motions of service and devotion but whose hearts and lives are far from God. If you desire to say, "As for me and my house we will serve the LORD," such a claim begins with you alone. If you do not fear, trust, and honour God, you are incapable of rightly leading others to do so. God can use a donkey to speak good sense, but that is no encouragement to act like one.
Follow Christ yourself, and take the initiative to lead others to do the same. Lead as you have been led. Be casting your cares on the LORD because He cares for you. We are called as much as depends on us to live peaceably with all men (Romans 12:18), and this goes for our family members as well. Empowerment of the Holy Spirit enables us to live like our Prince of Peace who always did the will of the Father. Even Jesus had a Judas, and the only way Simon became Peter was by the grace and goodness of God.
It was Joshua who uttered the famous statement in Joshua 24:14-15, "Now therefore, fear the LORD, serve Him in sincerity and in truth, and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the River and in Egypt. Serve the LORD! 15 And if it seems evil to you to serve the LORD, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD." For forty years after leaving Egypt, many Israelites carried the dumb idols of their fathers who perished in the wilderness with them. Though many refused to give up their idolatry (Eze. 20:7-9), Joshua made a decision to put away all idolatry from his life, and he was going to fear and serve the LORD only. Recognise he decided to serve God himself first and foremost. He was not going to force on his family what he considered best for them without walking in that upright way himself. As Joshua established his steps in God's honour, he took the initiative to lead the rest of the family to follow his God. It's a fair question: where do I put more emphasis concerning holiness - on "me" or "my house?"
Kids are not stupid. They can sense hypocrisy with the best, their minds discerning right and wrong with legalistic perfection. They know when you have had too much to drink and how that makes you act. They know when you stay up late watching programs you would never allow them to watch. They observe continuously how you spend your time. They know what a priority prayer, Bible reading, and serving at church is to you. Like it or not, we are either leading our families to Jesus through our examples or leading them away from Him. To drive our children to do things for the sake of "because I say so" supplies nothing more than vain tradition. Deuteronomy 6:4-9 says, "Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one! 5 You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. 6 And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. 7 You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. 8 You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. 9 You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates." This greatest of commands is for all individuals and parents regardless of sex. Parents have the responsibility not just to talk about God, but to live a life where God is our all in all. Children will ultimately go their own way, and when parents follow Jesus faithfully it opens that straight narrow path which leads to eternal life for them to follow.
A life lived for God's glory has far greater weight than mere words. This is where we can go wrong. In our own strength we can lay heavy words on others, and assure ourselves we have done our duty. But our neglect to destroy our own idols and follow Jesus alone gives our hypocritical words a negative effect. "Do as I say, not as I do" is the worst way a man can live I dare say it would better to be an alcoholic, fiercely controlling, verbally abusive, hateful man who curses God and openly denies Him than to claim you fear God whilst refusing to submit to Him fully. Many "churched" children are disillusioned by the hypocrisy of their "Christian" parents who go through the motions of service and devotion but whose hearts and lives are far from God. If you desire to say, "As for me and my house we will serve the LORD," such a claim begins with you alone. If you do not fear, trust, and honour God, you are incapable of rightly leading others to do so. God can use a donkey to speak good sense, but that is no encouragement to act like one.
Follow Christ yourself, and take the initiative to lead others to do the same. Lead as you have been led. Be casting your cares on the LORD because He cares for you. We are called as much as depends on us to live peaceably with all men (Romans 12:18), and this goes for our family members as well. Empowerment of the Holy Spirit enables us to live like our Prince of Peace who always did the will of the Father. Even Jesus had a Judas, and the only way Simon became Peter was by the grace and goodness of God.
07 July 2015
Taken As You Follow
The Bible is rich with practical examples people who trust in God can identify with. As I read through the book of Amos the other day, I truly identified with the prophet. My call to ministry echoed his own, and God's clear involvement helped Amos stay the course despite hardship. Becoming a pastor and teaching the Bible was never my intended plan for my future, and being a prophet was not the idea of Amos. He said in Amos 7:14-15, "I was no prophet, nor was I a son of a prophet, but I was a sheepbreeder and a tender of sycamore fruit.
15
Then the LORD took me as I followed the flock, and the LORD said to me, 'Go, prophesy to My people Israel.'" The fact neither Amos nor his father had a background in prophetic ministry was strong evidence of the authenticity of God's call upon his life. He didn't start prophesying because he had received professional training, but God singled Amos out for His service.
As a pastor, I am comforted by the fact I never once imagined being a pastor as a child or youth. It was only when I sought an open door to teach apprentices my trade of mechanical insulation I sensed God shutting that door and opening a door to teach His people: "You will preach, and you will be sent." I had already been teaching a Bible study, but a pastor? It seemed incredible and challenging to believe. Now I find myself a minister in Australia, and I know it is God who took me, called me, and will faithfully enable me to do His will. I am not a passive pawn in some divine game, but a beloved son and servant of the Most High. Like a soldier I have enlisted to serve God through faith in Christ, and it is required among stewards they be found faithful. As Joseph said I say humbly, "It is not in me: God will give an answer of peace." God does not need man, yet God freely chooses to use men and women who trust and obey Him.
The call of God is not answered by looking for it or guessing what it could be, but by simply following the flock. I did not draft a "wish list" of what role I would like in the Body of Christ or what gifts I wish to operate in. This is the role of the Holy Spirit, as it is written in 1 Corinthians 12:11, "But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually as He wills." Even as God formed the first man from the dust of the ground, He knits each person together in the womb. After being born again God places all people who trust in Christ in the Body of Christ according to His flawless design. You will discover exactly where you fit in the Body as you follow Jesus Christ in the flock of God. Amos was a devout man of God, and his trades were breeding sheep and farming sycamore fruit. As he followed the flock, God took him and called him out of his profession. He put words in the mouth of Amos and placed a burden on his heart to speak, and God used Amos as a prophet - even though he hadn't been trained as a prophet. Walking with God provides the best training, and being filled with the Holy Spirit trumps training by itself.
Too many people sense a call of God upon their life and make a grave error: they leave following the flock of God before God takes them and establishes them in their new role. They know God has called them, and impatiently seek to bring their call to fruition. They want others to recognise their calling too. Many of these people - likely anointed and called of God to minister - eventually leave ministering and return to breeding sheep, farming, working in sales, and back to the tools. There is nothing wrong with being a lay-minister like Paul who supported his ministry through manual labour. But even in prison Paul didn't stop ministering. Ministry ramped up! David was called and anointed as king over a decade before he actually became king. As the oil dripped down his face and soaked his clothes from the prophet Samuel's horn, he knew what it meant. What David didn't know at the time was for years God would permit the mad king Saul to pursue him with only a step between him and death. The LORD took that humble shepherd as he followed the flock, like Amos, and established him as king over all Israel. It will be the same for you and me as well.
Does this mean we all will be given an opportunity to rule? No: today Jesus Christ the KING OF KINGS is the rightful ruler. We are called to take the lowest place, for Jesus provided His followers the example of being the servant of all. Those given authority in ministry must remain under God's authority. Our lives are lived in the confines of time, and one of the great lessons we must learn is God is not in a hurry. Jesus allowed Lazarus to die and be buried instead of rushing to His immediate aid. For forty years Moses lived in Egypt, and then forty more years tended his father-in-law's herds before God took him and used him to deliver the Israelites from bondage. Joseph spent years in an Egyptian prison after being wrongfully accused before he was made second to Pharaoh and save the nation from famine. God allowed David to sleep in caves for years before he lived in a palace. Amos was trained for the ministry while he followed the flock. God called me as a pastor when I had been trained to insulate pipes and worked in the industry for over a decade! Looking back I can say with complete contentment: God knew what He was doing all along. God uses the daily grind to refine our faith.
Leave your role and the timing for your ministry to the LORD. It is all God's ministry, and He redeems the time. He will take you as you follow Jesus Christ, faithfully serving in obedience right where you are. Do you seek great things for yourself? The LORD forbids this (Jer. 45:5). Instead of despising the days of small things in your estimation, today seek to better serve and magnify our great and glorious God! Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things will be added unto you.
As a pastor, I am comforted by the fact I never once imagined being a pastor as a child or youth. It was only when I sought an open door to teach apprentices my trade of mechanical insulation I sensed God shutting that door and opening a door to teach His people: "You will preach, and you will be sent." I had already been teaching a Bible study, but a pastor? It seemed incredible and challenging to believe. Now I find myself a minister in Australia, and I know it is God who took me, called me, and will faithfully enable me to do His will. I am not a passive pawn in some divine game, but a beloved son and servant of the Most High. Like a soldier I have enlisted to serve God through faith in Christ, and it is required among stewards they be found faithful. As Joseph said I say humbly, "It is not in me: God will give an answer of peace." God does not need man, yet God freely chooses to use men and women who trust and obey Him.
The call of God is not answered by looking for it or guessing what it could be, but by simply following the flock. I did not draft a "wish list" of what role I would like in the Body of Christ or what gifts I wish to operate in. This is the role of the Holy Spirit, as it is written in 1 Corinthians 12:11, "But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually as He wills." Even as God formed the first man from the dust of the ground, He knits each person together in the womb. After being born again God places all people who trust in Christ in the Body of Christ according to His flawless design. You will discover exactly where you fit in the Body as you follow Jesus Christ in the flock of God. Amos was a devout man of God, and his trades were breeding sheep and farming sycamore fruit. As he followed the flock, God took him and called him out of his profession. He put words in the mouth of Amos and placed a burden on his heart to speak, and God used Amos as a prophet - even though he hadn't been trained as a prophet. Walking with God provides the best training, and being filled with the Holy Spirit trumps training by itself.
Too many people sense a call of God upon their life and make a grave error: they leave following the flock of God before God takes them and establishes them in their new role. They know God has called them, and impatiently seek to bring their call to fruition. They want others to recognise their calling too. Many of these people - likely anointed and called of God to minister - eventually leave ministering and return to breeding sheep, farming, working in sales, and back to the tools. There is nothing wrong with being a lay-minister like Paul who supported his ministry through manual labour. But even in prison Paul didn't stop ministering. Ministry ramped up! David was called and anointed as king over a decade before he actually became king. As the oil dripped down his face and soaked his clothes from the prophet Samuel's horn, he knew what it meant. What David didn't know at the time was for years God would permit the mad king Saul to pursue him with only a step between him and death. The LORD took that humble shepherd as he followed the flock, like Amos, and established him as king over all Israel. It will be the same for you and me as well.
Does this mean we all will be given an opportunity to rule? No: today Jesus Christ the KING OF KINGS is the rightful ruler. We are called to take the lowest place, for Jesus provided His followers the example of being the servant of all. Those given authority in ministry must remain under God's authority. Our lives are lived in the confines of time, and one of the great lessons we must learn is God is not in a hurry. Jesus allowed Lazarus to die and be buried instead of rushing to His immediate aid. For forty years Moses lived in Egypt, and then forty more years tended his father-in-law's herds before God took him and used him to deliver the Israelites from bondage. Joseph spent years in an Egyptian prison after being wrongfully accused before he was made second to Pharaoh and save the nation from famine. God allowed David to sleep in caves for years before he lived in a palace. Amos was trained for the ministry while he followed the flock. God called me as a pastor when I had been trained to insulate pipes and worked in the industry for over a decade! Looking back I can say with complete contentment: God knew what He was doing all along. God uses the daily grind to refine our faith.
Leave your role and the timing for your ministry to the LORD. It is all God's ministry, and He redeems the time. He will take you as you follow Jesus Christ, faithfully serving in obedience right where you are. Do you seek great things for yourself? The LORD forbids this (Jer. 45:5). Instead of despising the days of small things in your estimation, today seek to better serve and magnify our great and glorious God! Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things will be added unto you.
05 July 2015
A Divided Heart
During my recent trip to Cambodia, there was no shortage of images and idolatry. Temples, shrines, and monks were commonplace. The smell of burning incense was strong in shops, hotel lobbies, and restaurants. The worship of anything other than the Living God from a biblical perspective is idolatry, and it is endemic to all people. Idols in Cambodia can be pasted on the walls or be given an offering of food, but idols in western societies can be a woman who can sing, a man who is in our favourite band, or scores touchdowns on Sunday. Idolatry is rife even in the hearts of those who profess to trust and love God. A prime example is seen in God's chosen people.
It was unlawful for the Jews under the Law of Moses to represent God with engravings or with a moulded representation of a human body, of mammals, fish, birds, or creeping thing, for it would provide a temptation to worship the works of men's hands (Deut. 4:16-18). God is a Spirit, and must not be represented by anything created by Him or fashioned by men. Even with the Law and sacrifice, the days of the judges was marked by a recurring phrase: "Every man did what was right in his own eyes." This too is idolatry: the love of self. Self-seeking, self-esteem, and self-focus can be blights even in Christians. That is why we must repent and follow the leading of the Holy Spirit through the Word of God, being faithful disciples and making disciples of Jesus Christ.
What makes idolatry so sinister is it can be most subtle. It is perfectly natural for us to consider ourselves in making common decisions. Israel was blessed and fruitful, yet their abundance led to increased idolatry. They more God gave them, the less they trusted Him. The LORD spoke through the prophet in Hosea 10:1-2: "Israel empties his vine; he brings forth fruit for himself. According to the multitude of his fruit He has increased the altars; according to the bounty of his land they have embellished his sacred pillars. 2 Their heart is divided; now they are held guilty. He will break down their altars; He will ruin their sacred pillars." Israel did not bring fruit unto the LORD, but for himself. God was robbed of tithes and offerings. Sacrifices continued to be offered to God and also to the hosts of heaven. But this was only evidence of a deeper issue: one of a divided heart. Idolatry produces a divided heart! Part of the heart is loyal towards God, yet the affections and desires of the heart seek after other things. Those guilty of a divided heart may have the appearance of outward piety, but are guilty of idolatry before God.
Do you have a divided heart? Make the profession of Psalm 86:6-11 your prayer: "Give ear, O LORD, to my prayer; and attend to the voice of my supplications. 7 In the day of my trouble I will call upon You, for You will answer me. 8 Among the gods there is none like You, O Lord; nor are there any works like Your works. 9 All nations whom You have made shall come and worship before You, O Lord, and shall glorify Your name. 10 For You are great, and do wondrous things; You alone are God. 11 Teach me Your way, O LORD; I will walk in Your truth; unite my heart to fear Your name." May God's people have a united heart to fear and worship Him in truth always.
It was unlawful for the Jews under the Law of Moses to represent God with engravings or with a moulded representation of a human body, of mammals, fish, birds, or creeping thing, for it would provide a temptation to worship the works of men's hands (Deut. 4:16-18). God is a Spirit, and must not be represented by anything created by Him or fashioned by men. Even with the Law and sacrifice, the days of the judges was marked by a recurring phrase: "Every man did what was right in his own eyes." This too is idolatry: the love of self. Self-seeking, self-esteem, and self-focus can be blights even in Christians. That is why we must repent and follow the leading of the Holy Spirit through the Word of God, being faithful disciples and making disciples of Jesus Christ.
What makes idolatry so sinister is it can be most subtle. It is perfectly natural for us to consider ourselves in making common decisions. Israel was blessed and fruitful, yet their abundance led to increased idolatry. They more God gave them, the less they trusted Him. The LORD spoke through the prophet in Hosea 10:1-2: "Israel empties his vine; he brings forth fruit for himself. According to the multitude of his fruit He has increased the altars; according to the bounty of his land they have embellished his sacred pillars. 2 Their heart is divided; now they are held guilty. He will break down their altars; He will ruin their sacred pillars." Israel did not bring fruit unto the LORD, but for himself. God was robbed of tithes and offerings. Sacrifices continued to be offered to God and also to the hosts of heaven. But this was only evidence of a deeper issue: one of a divided heart. Idolatry produces a divided heart! Part of the heart is loyal towards God, yet the affections and desires of the heart seek after other things. Those guilty of a divided heart may have the appearance of outward piety, but are guilty of idolatry before God.
Do you have a divided heart? Make the profession of Psalm 86:6-11 your prayer: "Give ear, O LORD, to my prayer; and attend to the voice of my supplications. 7 In the day of my trouble I will call upon You, for You will answer me. 8 Among the gods there is none like You, O Lord; nor are there any works like Your works. 9 All nations whom You have made shall come and worship before You, O Lord, and shall glorify Your name. 10 For You are great, and do wondrous things; You alone are God. 11 Teach me Your way, O LORD; I will walk in Your truth; unite my heart to fear Your name." May God's people have a united heart to fear and worship Him in truth always.
03 July 2015
Salvation By Shipwreck
Faith in God is demonstrated through trust and obedience. Even when the circumstances of life seem to dictate more sensible courses of action than faith in God, trusting and obeying God no matter what are keys to comfort, rest, and salvation. God never works in the way we might predict, for the ways of God are infinitely higher than those of men. We might have an idea of what God is doing or what we might want Him to do, but God's judgments are not based on our shortsighted, often selfish perspectives. For God's people all situations are worked out for our good.
The Bible is filled with demonstrations of faith by God's people. God allows us to experience troubles, trials, and temptations so our faith and character might be refined as gold. The book of Acts describes a situation when trust in the word of God contradicted men's best ideas or efforts for self preservation. Paul had been arrested and was being transported by ship along with two hundred and seventy-five other men which was comprised of fellow prisoners, guards, and crew. It was a risky time for sailing, but the helmsmen convinced the centurion they could reach a harbour in Crete. Shortly after their departure, they were caught in a great tempest. The crew and men did everything possible to survive.
Acts 27:16-20 reads, "And running under the shelter of an island called Clauda, we secured the skiff with difficulty. 17 When they had taken it on board, they used cables to undergird the ship; and fearing lest they should run aground on the Syrtis Sands, they struck sail and so were driven. 18 And because we were exceedingly tempest-tossed, the next day they lightened the ship. 19 On the third day we threw the ship's tackle overboard with our own hands. 20 Now when neither sun nor stars appeared for many days, and no small tempest beat on us, all hope that we would be saved was finally given up." The men did everything possible to save themselves. They secured the skiff, undergirded the ship, struck sail to avoid running aground, lightened the ship, and finally threw all the tackle overboard. All hope of being saved was finally given up. Yet when there appeared no physical hope or help, God spoke to Paul who in turn proclaimed it to the men on board.
During his address Paul said in Acts 27:22-27, "And now I urge you to take heart, for there will be no loss of life among you, but only of the ship. 23 For there stood by me this night an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I serve, 24 saying, 'Do not be afraid, Paul; you must be brought before Caesar; and indeed God has granted you all those who sail with you.' 25 Therefore take heart, men, for I believe God that it will be just as it was told me. 26 However, we must run aground on a certain island." Paul urged the men to take heart because God had spoken to him, and promised there would be no loss of life - but only the ship. When there was no hope an angel spoke to Paul and said, "Do not be afraid." Without a shred of physical evidence beyond the word of God Paul took heart, believing that all would be exactly as God said: the ship would be destroyed, but all would be saved.
Not everyone was keen to take God at His word. They wanted to avoid running aground so they continued to take soundings to gauge depth. As the depth gradually reduced and their fear of running aground seemed likely, some of the crew secretly decided to take matters into their own hands. Their own efforts had been useless to that point, but were unwilling to remain on the ship despite God's promise. Can't we do the exact same thing? While pretending to let down the anchors, they lowed the skiff from the side. Acts 27:31 says, "Paul said to the centurion and the soldiers, "Unless these men stay in the ship, you cannot be saved." For God's word to be confirmed, all those on board needed to meet God's conditions: stay on the ship until it runs aground, and then all will be saved. Should some leave in disobedience, they would jeopardise their own lives and even the centurion who remained on board.
The passage concludes the next day in Acts 27:40-44: "And they let go the anchors and left them in the sea, meanwhile loosing the rudder ropes; and they hoisted the mainsail to the wind and made for shore. 41 But striking a place where two seas met, they ran the ship aground; and the prow stuck fast and remained immovable, but the stern was being broken up by the violence of the waves. 42 And the soldiers' plan was to kill the prisoners, lest any of them should swim away and escape. 43 But the centurion, wanting to save Paul, kept them from their purpose, and commanded that those who could swim should jump overboard first and get to land, 44 and the rest, some on boards and some on parts of the ship. And so it was that they all escaped safely to land." What the passengers feared most God allowed to happen to them, yet trust in God's Word brought salvation: all escaped safely to land. God did not withhold violent waves from tearing the ship into pieces, nor did He preserve the ship. When all hope was lost, God provided hope through shipwreck.
The disciples were shattered and afraid when Jesus Christ died on the cross. All hope seemed lost. Yet Satan's apparent victory was no defeat for God, for Jesus Christ rose from the grave immortal and glorified as He said. It was in His death and resurrection all can have salvation and life. It is in our dying to self - in losing our lives for the sake of Jesus - that we find everlasting life, love, salvation, and indescribable joy. Do not fear the shipwrecks or trials by fire God allows in your life, for it is in the tempest or the furnace of affliction God will meet with you, speak comfort to you, and provide hope for you and others. When all hope is lost, do not lose heart. Those who trust God and His Word will never be put to shame.
The Bible is filled with demonstrations of faith by God's people. God allows us to experience troubles, trials, and temptations so our faith and character might be refined as gold. The book of Acts describes a situation when trust in the word of God contradicted men's best ideas or efforts for self preservation. Paul had been arrested and was being transported by ship along with two hundred and seventy-five other men which was comprised of fellow prisoners, guards, and crew. It was a risky time for sailing, but the helmsmen convinced the centurion they could reach a harbour in Crete. Shortly after their departure, they were caught in a great tempest. The crew and men did everything possible to survive.
Acts 27:16-20 reads, "And running under the shelter of an island called Clauda, we secured the skiff with difficulty. 17 When they had taken it on board, they used cables to undergird the ship; and fearing lest they should run aground on the Syrtis Sands, they struck sail and so were driven. 18 And because we were exceedingly tempest-tossed, the next day they lightened the ship. 19 On the third day we threw the ship's tackle overboard with our own hands. 20 Now when neither sun nor stars appeared for many days, and no small tempest beat on us, all hope that we would be saved was finally given up." The men did everything possible to save themselves. They secured the skiff, undergirded the ship, struck sail to avoid running aground, lightened the ship, and finally threw all the tackle overboard. All hope of being saved was finally given up. Yet when there appeared no physical hope or help, God spoke to Paul who in turn proclaimed it to the men on board.
During his address Paul said in Acts 27:22-27, "And now I urge you to take heart, for there will be no loss of life among you, but only of the ship. 23 For there stood by me this night an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I serve, 24 saying, 'Do not be afraid, Paul; you must be brought before Caesar; and indeed God has granted you all those who sail with you.' 25 Therefore take heart, men, for I believe God that it will be just as it was told me. 26 However, we must run aground on a certain island." Paul urged the men to take heart because God had spoken to him, and promised there would be no loss of life - but only the ship. When there was no hope an angel spoke to Paul and said, "Do not be afraid." Without a shred of physical evidence beyond the word of God Paul took heart, believing that all would be exactly as God said: the ship would be destroyed, but all would be saved.
Not everyone was keen to take God at His word. They wanted to avoid running aground so they continued to take soundings to gauge depth. As the depth gradually reduced and their fear of running aground seemed likely, some of the crew secretly decided to take matters into their own hands. Their own efforts had been useless to that point, but were unwilling to remain on the ship despite God's promise. Can't we do the exact same thing? While pretending to let down the anchors, they lowed the skiff from the side. Acts 27:31 says, "Paul said to the centurion and the soldiers, "Unless these men stay in the ship, you cannot be saved." For God's word to be confirmed, all those on board needed to meet God's conditions: stay on the ship until it runs aground, and then all will be saved. Should some leave in disobedience, they would jeopardise their own lives and even the centurion who remained on board.
The passage concludes the next day in Acts 27:40-44: "And they let go the anchors and left them in the sea, meanwhile loosing the rudder ropes; and they hoisted the mainsail to the wind and made for shore. 41 But striking a place where two seas met, they ran the ship aground; and the prow stuck fast and remained immovable, but the stern was being broken up by the violence of the waves. 42 And the soldiers' plan was to kill the prisoners, lest any of them should swim away and escape. 43 But the centurion, wanting to save Paul, kept them from their purpose, and commanded that those who could swim should jump overboard first and get to land, 44 and the rest, some on boards and some on parts of the ship. And so it was that they all escaped safely to land." What the passengers feared most God allowed to happen to them, yet trust in God's Word brought salvation: all escaped safely to land. God did not withhold violent waves from tearing the ship into pieces, nor did He preserve the ship. When all hope was lost, God provided hope through shipwreck.
The disciples were shattered and afraid when Jesus Christ died on the cross. All hope seemed lost. Yet Satan's apparent victory was no defeat for God, for Jesus Christ rose from the grave immortal and glorified as He said. It was in His death and resurrection all can have salvation and life. It is in our dying to self - in losing our lives for the sake of Jesus - that we find everlasting life, love, salvation, and indescribable joy. Do not fear the shipwrecks or trials by fire God allows in your life, for it is in the tempest or the furnace of affliction God will meet with you, speak comfort to you, and provide hope for you and others. When all hope is lost, do not lose heart. Those who trust God and His Word will never be put to shame.
02 July 2015
Our Hope for Healing
"For thus says the LORD: 'Your affliction is incurable, your wound is severe.
13
There is no one to plead your cause, that you may be bound up; you have no healing medicines.'"
Jeremiah 30:12-13
There is no cure in this world for the ills which plague men. The "self-help" section of shops and libraries has not diminished because of the success of previous editions. New books are written to build upon the faulty foundation that man is able through effort to better himself. The detestable nature of our hearts and afflictions of mind and body cannot be addressed by human means. We have all sinned, and sin ultimately brings death. Surgery does not cure, nor does therapy heal. Our lives are one of physical decline, and all society with us. Our affliction is incurable, and our wound is severe.
Those who believe lasting positive change in the world can by implemented through government programs, laws, taxes, religion, or tradition chase a mirage. Only the LORD who accurately diagnoses the condition of men is able to do anything to cure it. If a doctor treats a man for a common cold who has AIDS, his treatment will be ineffective and pointless without addressing the source. The problem is not a runny nose or sore throat, but a systemic problem which weakens the body's defenses. Treating symptoms without dealing with the cause only temporarily masks the problem.
If we were to ask "the man on the street" what is the biggest problem in the world today, he would no doubt supply an answer. There are a plethora of potential responses. The follow-up question is the more difficult one: "What would you do or how could you fix the problem?" Our affliction is incurable, our wound severe. There is no one to help plead our cause, no one to bind our wounds we have suffered, and no balm to promote healing. There is only one hope for this world: Jesus Christ. He is the One who raises the dead to life, gives those who trust in Him new hearts, supplies the Holy Spirit who comforts, convicts, helps, and instructs, and makes us new. Naaman was cured from his leprosy by dipping seven times in the Jordan River at the word of Elisha the prophet, and all are washed clean from sin through the application of Christ's shed blood by faith. A relationship with Jesus Christ transforms our perspective and provides unshakable hope in a hopeless world.
Luke 4:17-21 speaks of when Jesus went into a synogogue in Nazareth: "And He was handed the book of the prophet Isaiah. And when He had opened the book, He found the place where it was written: 18 "The Spirit of the LORD is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed; 19 to proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD." 20 Then He closed the book, and gave it back to the attendant and sat down. And the eyes of all who were in the synagogue were fixed on Him. 21 And He began to say to them, "Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing." For all who hear and trust in Jesus, this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing. There is no earthy cure for what ails you, no medicine to heal your broken heart. But if Jesus is able to cause the blind to see, the lame to walk, and the dead to live again, He can restore you to wholeness! With a word He cast out demons from a distance, and by His Word the world was created. He rose from the dead, proving His power over sin and death. Because Jesus lives, He can be your life.
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